Sainsbury's Trials Larger Self-Checkout Tills

Sainsbury's is piloting larger hybrid self-checkout systems with conveyor belts to replace human cashiers, aiming to enhance store efficiency and accommodate customers making larger trolley purchases. The trials are taking place in two locations, Cobham and Witney, and include touchscreen pads for shoppers to locate items without staff assistance. Sainsbury's chief executive, Simon Roberts, emphasizes the necessity of these changes amidst rising cost pressures and a goal to save £1 billion over the next three years. The initiative has faced backlash from customers who prefer human interaction at checkouts, citing long queues and a frustrating shopping experience. Despite the criticism, Sainsbury's plans to maintain at least one manned checkout in all stores and believes the changes align with customer demand for faster checkouts. The supermarket is also modernizing 180 stores under its 'Next Level Sainsbury’s' strategy, incorporating various technological upgrades.